La Laguna and
Small La Laguna.
The coastal
waters of Puerto
Galera were
declared a marine
sanctuary several
decades ago. As a
result, the reefs
have become
amazingly diverse
and prolific over
the years.
Folks who fly into
the Philippines
usually take a two-
hour bus ride from
Manila to Batangas
followed by a one-
hour crossing of the
Verde Island
Passage. Puerto
Galera is easily
accessible. Most resorts and dive
centers can arrange transfers from
anywhere in Manila. Boat transfers
to and from Anilao are also
common and take anywhere from
40 minutes to two hours depending
on the type of boat and the
currents. Diving is possible at PG
year ‘round.
In the gorgeous coves and bays
east of Puerto Galera you’ll find
more than 40 excellent dive sites
within 20 minutes of most diving
services, and more dive sites farther
out. This area is also a huge
technical diving area. This book
deals with just the major sport
diving sites but there is an array of
deep (150 ft.+ 45m+) sites that are
regularly done with mixed gas and
rebreathers. Accessible snorkeling is
just offshore, where marine life
abounds even in shallow water.
Currents can be quite strong at
some of the sites, and unwary divers
have been swept out to sea on
occasion. Always dive with a
knowledgeable local guide, of
which there is no shortage.PG kids eating ice cream